DEWALT DCCS670X1 Review

Introduction: A Battery-Powered Chainsaw That Demands Attention

Gas chainsaws have long been the standard for serious cutting, with their mixed fuel, pull-start struggles on cold mornings, and constant carburetor adjustments. The DEWALT DCCS670X1 challenges that norm. Marketed as a 60V max saw, it uses FlexVolt battery technology, meaning the battery switches voltage depending on the tool—delivering 60V in the chainsaw and dropping to 20V in standard DEWALT drills. This is a significant advantage for anyone already invested in the DEWALT 20V system, allowing battery sharing across an entire tool kit. However, this saw comes with trade-offs that need careful consideration before purchase.

This review is based on research, owner feedback, and analysis of the saw’s specifications and performance in typical homeowner and contractor tasks. It covers what the saw does well, where it falls short, and who it suits best.

Performance: Where This Saw Shines and Where It Struggles

Power and Cutting Ability

In terms of raw cutting power, the DCCS670X1 is impressive for a battery model. It cuts through green oak and seasoned ash without bogging down, as long as the chain is allowed to do the work. On the spec sheet, it is competitive with other high-end battery saws like the Stihl MSA 300 or the Makita XCU08PT. Owners consistently report making clean, straight cuts through 10-inch logs in about 4 to 5 seconds—not as fast as a professional gas saw, but solid for its class.

Where the saw struggles is in dense, knotty wood. Feedback from users indicates that hitting a knot in seasoned ash can stop the chain dead, requiring a release of the trigger, repositioning, and easing into the cut again. This is common for battery saws, as they lack the torque of a gas engine at lower RPMs. For cutting mostly clean, straight-grained wood, the saw performs well. For knotty or twisted grain, frustration is likely.

Battery Life and Runtime

The included 6.0 Ah battery weighs 2.2 pounds, adding noticeable weight to the rear of the saw. Total weight with battery and bar is approximately 12 pounds. The rear-heavy weight distribution makes the saw feel nose-light, which aids in cutting overhead branches but causes the saw to tip backward when set down.

Battery runtime is decent but not exceptional. With a fully charged 6.0 Ah battery, owners report making approximately 70 to 80 cuts through 6-inch seasoned ash before the saw slows and stops—enough for a solid hour of intermittent cutting. For heavy continuous bucking, runtime drops to about 30 to 40 minutes. For storm cleanup or pruning, this is sufficient. For a full day of firewood processing, at least two or three batteries and a fast charger are necessary.

The included 4-amp charger takes about 90 minutes to fully charge a depleted 6.0 Ah battery. For continuous work, the DCB118 fast charger is recommended, cutting charge time roughly in half.

Tool-Free Chain Tensioning

This is a standout feature. The DCCS670X1 has a side-mounted tensioning knob that is turned by hand—no tools required. Loosen the knob, adjust chain tension via the tensioning wheel, and tighten the knob. It takes about 15 seconds. This is a significant improvement over traditional saws that require a wrench and screwdriver. Owners consistently report that the system works perfectly, even with gloves on, and is simple and reliable.

Chain Oiler: A Missed Opportunity

The chain oiler is automatic, oiling the chain whenever the saw is running. The oil tank holds enough for about one full battery charge. However, the oiler is not adjustable. This is a limitation for varying cutting conditions. When cutting green oak, the chain needs more oil to prevent overheating; when cutting dry seasoned wood, the oiler is fine. But the inability to adjust flow means that in green or resinous wood, the chain may get hot and stretch faster than it should. This is a cost-saving measure by DEWALT and a real drawback.

Build Quality and Value

Construction and Materials

The DCCS670X1 is built to DEWALT’s usual standard—good but not premium. The housing is a mix of high-impact plastic and metal. The handle is rubberized and comfortable. The chain brake is easy to engage and disengage with one hand. The bar is a standard 12-inch Oregon bar, a solid choice. The chain is a low-kickback chain, safe for homeowners but not the fastest cutting option.

One area where DEWALT cut corners is the bucking spikes, which are made of plastic. This is disappointing, as plastic spikes wear down quickly and can break when hitting hard knots or nails. Metal spikes are found on much cheaper saws. For frequent bucking, aftermarket metal spikes are recommended—an extra cost and annoyance.

Low Maintenance: The Real Selling Point

The biggest advantage over gas models is low maintenance. No fuel mixing, carburetor cleaning, spark plug replacement, or air filter changes. Charge the battery, fill the oil tank, and cut. When done, wipe it down and store it. It can sit for six months and start immediately when the trigger is pulled. For those who dislike gas engine maintenance, this saw is a dream.

However, chain sharpness and proper tensioning remain essential. A dull chain kills battery life and cuts poorly. Owners report sharpening the chain after every two hours of cutting, which is normal for any chainsaw. The tool-free tensioning makes adjustments easy.

Value for Money

The DCCS670X1 is not a budget saw. It is priced competitively with other high-end battery chainsaws. The kit includes one 6.0 Ah FlexVolt battery and a charger, making the price reasonable for what you get. However, additional batteries are needed for more than an hour of work, and a second 6.0 Ah battery costs roughly half the price of the saw itself.

For existing DEWALT 20V tool owners, the FlexVolt battery is a huge value, working across circular saws, reciprocating saws, and chainsaws. For those starting from scratch, a less expensive battery system or a gas saw may be more cost-effective.

Who This Suits

This saw is ideal for specific users:

• Homeowners with light to medium cutting needs: Pruning trees, cutting fallen branches, and processing a few cords of firewood per year. The low maintenance and instant start are key benefits.
• DEWALT tool loyalists: FlexVolt battery integration is a killer feature for those already in the system.
• Contractors doing light demo or storm cleanup: A grab-and-go saw without fuel mixing, quiet enough for residential areas.
• People who hate gas engine maintenance: No stuck pull cords or gummed-up carburetors.

This saw is not for you if:

• You are a professional logger or arborist: The power and runtime of a gas saw are necessary.
• You cut a lot of large-diameter hardwood: The 12-inch bar limits logs to under 12 inches; a 14-inch bar is available but the saw struggles with larger cuts.
• You are on a tight budget: Upfront cost plus extra batteries make this a significant investment; a good gas saw costs less and runs all day on a tank of fuel.

Verdict: A Solid Battery Saw with Real Limitations

The DEWALT DCCS670X1 is a well-designed battery chainsaw that delivers good power for its class. The FlexVolt battery system is a genuine advantage for DEWALT users. The tool-free chain tensioning is excellent, and low maintenance is a huge convenience. It starts every time, runs quietly, and cuts well for its size.

However, compromises exist: the non-adjustable chain oiler is a real annoyance, plastic bucking spikes are cheap and wear out, the battery is heavy, and runtime is limited. This saw is not a replacement for a gas saw in serious cutting—it is a supplement. It is ideal for quick jobs, cutting in tight spaces, and working near houses where noise and fumes are a problem.

If those limitations are acceptable, the DCCS670X1 is a very good tool. For many tasks, it will make life easier. For a do-everything saw that runs all day, stick with gas. This saw earns a place as a go-to for smaller jobs, not the best chainsaw overall, but the one most often reached for in its niche.